After numerous mishaps, anomalies, and rumblings were raised regarding the country’s hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games, President Rodrigo Duterte wants answers.
In a story by Rappler, Duterte, through Palace Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, expressed his displeasure regarding the allegations being brought up. And the president wants a probe on it.
“The President is not pleased with what he’s been hearing about certain snafu, certain delays, certain allegations of athletes not being fed properly, athletes arriving late or not on time delivered to their places of rest or residence. He’s displeased,” said the spokesman in Rappler’s story.
“There were allegations of fraud na lumalabas sa diyaryo. Ayaw niya rin ‘yun. He wants to investigate that.”
The Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee answered with a statement Thursday, saying that they are willing to undergo a probe if it arises.
But the group is hoping that it comes after the games.
“The Organizing Committee remains focused on ensuring the success of the Philippine hosting of the 30th SEA Games, and assures the public that all government regulations have been observed in this great endeavor,” the statement read.
“Our Chairman [Alan Peter Cayetano] has declared numerous times that we are willing to participate in any form of investigation on the 30th SEA Games, after its conclusion on December 12.”
A catch, though, is that the Palace should also probe the “proliferation of fake news” during the ordeal.
During a press conference yesterday, Tats Suzara and Bambol Tolentino criticized the media for spreading panic, saying that the games are still a work in progress. The two assured that everything will be smooth sailing come November 30.
“We agree that during the inquiry, we should be investigating too the proliferation of Fake News a few days before the Opening Ceremony, which has put the organizing committee, the Games, and the country in a bad light,” it read.
“Presidential Spokesperson would agree with this as he himself was a victim of Fake News.”
For now, PHISGOC is hoping that the country unites for this event.
